Haute Paper for the Holiday Wrapper

I’ve fallen off the grid due to last minute travel for work, and most recently, last minute shopping. However, I am pleased to say that you will not find me in the checkout lines on Christmas Eve.  For the first year ever, I can spend the next few days paying extra attention to my gift wrap. 

As a sucker for all things creative, I lend just as much thought to my gift’s presentation as I do in selecting the actual gift. With that said, I reverted to a giddy child when I discovered the wrapping paper collection from Fashion Designer and Interior Décor Designer, Cynthia Rowley.  Her paper prints are direct replicas of her trendy runway fashions.

Another fantastic find this year is the fact many pieces from Cynthia Rowley’s home décor collections can be found in HomeGoods, TJMaxx and Marshalls!  Ranging from bedding, and decorative pillows to desktop accessories, the lines display the hip color pallets and prints.

I have yet to see Cynthia Rowley's wrapping paper in these retail stores, but no worries……there are plenty of other fashionable options to be found in the HomeGoods chains such as these animal print papers.

Faux Crocodile/Alligator Print wrapping paper is haute this holiday season! It is also deemed a must have for 2012 Summer/Spring fashions.

Croc Print Wrapping Paper $2.99-$3.99 @ HomeGoods, TJMaxx, Marshalls

Available in a variety of colors to include red, silver, gold, lime, teal, fuschia, purple

Save our animal print! Michael Kors 2012 Summer/Spring Collection keeps the leopard and zebra fashion alive!

Zebra and Leopard Wrapping Paper $2.99-$3.99 @ HomeGoods, TJMaxx, Marshalls

Stylish wrapping paper is ideal, but like in fashion, it is also very chic to keep your paper solid, and accessorize with fun ornaments, stickers, ribbon and tulle!



Speaking of fashion…..let’s not forget the double gift of using fabric as wrapping paper. Grab a scarf, wrap or throw, and you’ve got it covered!

Dress a gift with a new or thrifted button down shirt.

On a tight budget? Take a look at these examples of transforming brown butcher/packing paper or brown paper bags into swanky wrapping.

If you are anything like my husband and not a gift wrapper at all, save your money and time in paying for gift wrapping services and invest in decorative boxes. I’ve never been a large fan of the boxes with cheesy themes and images, but they are becoming more and more attractive each year. Add an embellishment, and Viola….Magic!

The key perk in haute wrapping paper is the fact it can be recycled and reused all year round, regardless of the occasion. 

On the subject of recycling and reusing, being “Greener” is always in the top 10 of New Year’s Resolutions. Start early for 2012. Stay tuned for creative ideas for the wrapping paper after the gifts are opened.

Wreaths Aren't Just For Welcoming

Wreaths aren’t just used to welcome guests. They’ve made their way into various rooms of the house and have become a necessity when decorating for the holidays. With that said, incorporating wreaths that truly represent the personality and style of those that dwell in the space should be equally important as the color and ornament choices.

Feather Wreath by TamiB Decor

 Red Fabric Wreath by TamiB Decor

White Fabric Wreath by TamiB Decor 

Green Fabric Wreathy by TamiB Decor

 

Feathers and fabrics are awesome choices to glam up any space. Here are a few more unique wreaths using unconventional materials and still greeting guests in style. Most of which can also serve as family DIY projects.

Coffee Filters 

Antique Platters and Plates 

 Wrapped Boxes

 Family Photos

Book Pages

Creative wreaths are great, but for those who do not have the time or resources, there are several ways traditional wreaths can be displayed in imaginative ways. Here are a few examples of wreath chandeliers.

I am still strategically unpacking my holiday décor, piece by piece allowing me to tackle decorating room by room.  The guest bathroom/powder room always is an overlook by many, but almost certain to be a destination for most guests. Since we are talking about wreaths, here is how I chose to use a wreath I made using my existing mirror.

I think it definitely translates the holiday season without being overbearing. Can anyone guess what the white feather embellishments are?

Victoria’s Secret Bares Haute Holiday Schemes

Over 30 sets of wings glided down the catwalk during the 2011 Victoria’s Secret Fashion show in New York. Although the extravaganza took place on November 9, it aired last night on CBS.

The 69 piece collection was broken down into 6 themes: Ballet, Super Angels, Passion Play, Angels Aquatic, I Put a Spell on You and Club Pink. Each look took part in the 2 million Swarovski Crystals worn and definitely escalated GLAM to the next level. Every year the show gets bigger, better and more creative, as with the new whimsical Christmas color pallets and themes.

The show not only made me perform a body fat check in the mirror, but it also jolted my holiday decorating spirit. Because the winter holiday decorations are temporary, this is the best time to step out of the box and adorn our homes with over the top decor. Here are a few trendy options that wowed the runway, and can definitely transform any space. The color selections provided are from Sherwin Williams.

This season, the cool hues are in. Luckily these Blues will have you anywhere but down.

Traveling a slight notch on the color wheel, the Purple and Pinks prove to be popular options with a powerful affect.

Red will always make a return every Christmas, but this year, it’s a turn for the better.

The elegance of monochromatic and neutral holiday décor is breath taking. The metallic silver, gold, and bronze along with the classic white and black prove to be staples for any design, whether in fashion or interiors.

Inspiration is checked off my Wish List, and it’s now time to get to work in my home. Stay tuned for the progress of my Holiday Home transformation and inexpensive DIY solutions. Can anyone guess my color pallet? (I’m slightly embarrassed that it’s so predictable)